Classic Philly Cheesesteak Recipe - Easy Homemade Guide

The Philly cheesesteak is a beloved sandwich around the world. It started from a simple hot dog cart in Philadelphia. Now, it’s a cultural icon, known for its tasty mix of beef, cheese, and onions in a soft hoagie roll.

This guide will show you how to make a homemade cheesesteak just like Philly’s top spots. With basic ingredients and a little practice, you can enjoy this easy sandwich recipe at home.

Key Takeaways

Authentic Philly cheesesteak features thinly sliced ribeye steak, melted provolone cheese, and sautéed onions and peppers.
The recipe is easy to make at home in just 30 minutes, using simple ingredients like sirloin steak, provolone cheese, and a hoagie roll.
Philly cheesesteak originated from a hot dog cart vendor in the early 20th century, becoming a beloved local and national dish.
The recipe allows for versatility, with options to experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, and meat cuts.
Proper cooking techniques, such as slicing the steak against the grain and sautéing the vegetables, are key to achieving the perfect Philly cheesesteak texture and flavor.

The History Behind Philadelphia’s Iconic Sandwich

The Philly cheesesteak’s story begins in the 1930s with Pat Olivieri. He owned a hot dog stand in Philadelphia. Olivieri’s idea was to grill beef and put it in a soft Italian roll. This simple creation changed the city’s food scene forever.

Pat Olivieri’s Hot Dog Stand Story

A hungry taxi driver once smelled Olivieri’s creation. He asked for one, and loved it. Soon, people were lining up at Olivieri’s stand for the new sandwich. This moment started the Philly cheesesteak journey in Philadelphia food history.

Evolution from Street Food to Cultural Icon

The Philly cheesesteak grew from a street food to a cultural icon. Today, it has many variations. From the classic rib-eye and provolone to Cheez Whiz or American cheese, it’s a symbol of Philly cheesesteak origin and the city’s food heritage.

Now, the Philly cheesesteak is a must-try for everyone. Places like Pat’s King of Steaks and Geno’s Steaks are famous. They offer the original, authentic taste of this iconic sandwich.

Essential Ingredients for an Authentic Philly Cheesesteak

Making a classic Philly cheesesteak starts with top-notch ingredients. Thinly sliced cheesesteak ingredients and the right bread are key. Each part is crucial for the iconic sandwich loved by many in Philadelphia.

The meat is at the heart of the authentic Philly cheesesteak components. Boneless ribeye is the top choice for its tender taste and rich flavor. But, sirloin is often used too because it’s cheaper and still tasty.

Boneless Ribeye Steak: The traditional and preferred cut of meat
Sirloin Steak: A more affordable alternative to ribeye

Cheese is also vital for the Philly cheesesteak. The most popular cheeses are:

Whiz (Cheez Whiz): A Philly favorite that melts well
Provolone: A classic with a tangy, semi-soft texture
American: A creamy cheese that goes well with the meat

The hoagie roll is the base of the Philly cheesesteak. Amoroso’s, a local bakery, makes the soft, chewy rolls that are the traditional choice.

While the main ingredients are key, the Philly cheesesteak also lets you add extras. You can add sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms. This makes it your own and adds to the variety of flavors.

Choosing the Perfect Cut of Beef

When making a real Philly cheesesteak, picking the right beef is key. Ribeye is the favorite, loved for its softness and rich flavor. Anthony Bourdain said, “Rib eye is the most commonly used cut of beef in a cheesesteak, almost always sliced just short of paper thin on a deli slicer.”

Why Ribeye is the Top Choice

The ribeye’s taste and softness make it the best for cheesesteaks. Its fat content makes it juicy and full of flavor. Plus, it’s easy to slice thinly, which is important for this sandwich.

Alternative Meat Options

While ribeye is the top choice, other cuts work well too. Sirloin, especially the petite kind, is cheaper but still tasty. Skirt steak and flank steak are also good, known for their strong taste and quick cooking.

Tips for Slicing the Meat

Slicing the beef thinly is crucial for a Philly cheesesteak’s texture. Freezing the meat for 30 minutes helps with slicing. Cutting against the grain also makes it tender, so it melts in your mouth.

With the right beef and slicing skills, you can make a great Philly cheesesteak at home. Choose the classic ribeye or try something different. The goal is to find the best beef for cheesesteak that will make you feel like you’re in Philadelphia.

The Great Cheese Debate: Provolone vs. Cheese Whiz

The debate over the best cheese for a Philly cheesesteak is fierce. It pits provolone against Cheese Whiz. Both are key to this iconic Philadelphia dish.

Provolone is often seen as the best cheese for Philly cheesesteak. It has a neutral taste and melts well. This makes it a perfect match for the steak, creating a balanced flavor.

Cheese Whiz, on the other hand, is loved for its tangy taste. It’s a processed cheese that’s been a Philly cheesesteak staple for years. Its spreadable texture coats the steak and bun, making it gooey.

“Whiz was voted as the third-choice cheese in the poll, indicating that it is not a preferred option for everyone.”

The debate also shows regional traditions and loyalties. While Whiz is king at Pat’s King of Steaks, American cheese is popular elsewhere. Provolone is the favorite at the White House Sub Shop in Atlantic City.

Cheese Option	Popularity	Flavor Profile	Melting Characteristics
Provolone	High	Neutral, creamy	Excellent
Cheese Whiz	High	Tangy, distinctive	Melty, spreadable
American	Moderate	Mild, creamy	Good

The choice of cheesesteak cheese options depends on personal taste and local traditions. Whether you prefer provolone, Cheese Whiz, or American, the debate keeps the Philly cheesesteak exciting.

Philly Cheesesteak Recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to make a real Philly cheesesteak at home. This guide will show you how to prepare, cook, and assemble this famous sandwich. You’ll be making a delicious masterpiece in no time.

Preparation Steps

Begin by slicing the beef thinly, about 1/16″ to ⅛”. This makes the meat cook fast and stay tender. Then, chop the onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms into small pieces.

Cooking Instructions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high. Sauté the vegetables until they’re soft and caramelized, about 8-10 minutes. Take them out and set aside.

Cook the beef in batches in the same skillet. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook until it’s browned and done, about 5 minutes per batch.

After the beef is cooked, put the vegetables back in the skillet. Add your cheese (like provolone) and stir until it’s melted and mixed well.

Assembly Tips

Toast the hoagie rolls until they’re golden brown. Fill the rolls with the cheesy beef and vegetable mix. Serve right away for the best taste.

The whole process takes about 45 minutes. You’ll also need 35 minutes to chill the steak. By following these steps, you’ll make a Philly cheesesteak as good as the ones in Philadelphia.

Selecting and Preparing the Perfect Roll

Choosing the right bread is key to a true Philly cheesesteak roll. Amoroso rolls, a Philly favorite, are soft and chewy. But, any quality hoagie roll will do for your homemade version.

To get the rolls ready, split them lengthwise but keep them connected. Brush the inside with melted butter or olive oil. Then, toast them in a 400°F oven for 3 to 5 minutes until they’re golden. This step keeps the rolls from getting soggy with the hot filling.

Use Amoroso rolls for an authentic Philly touch or opt for high-quality hoagie rolls.
Split the rolls lengthwise, but don’t separate them completely.
Lightly brush the insides with melted butter or olive oil.
Toast the rolls in a 400°F oven for 3 to 5 minutes until golden brown.
Toasting the rolls helps to prevent them from becoming soggy when filled.

By picking the right roll and preparing it well, your homemade Philly cheesesteak will taste just like the classic. It will have the perfect texture and flavor.

Traditional Vegetable Toppings and Additions

Making a real Philly cheesesteak means using classic vegetable toppings. Caramelized onions, sautéed bell peppers, and fresh mushrooms are key. They add flavor, texture, and sweetness to the sandwich.

Caramelized Onions

Cooking onions slowly until they’re golden brown is essential. This process makes them sweet, balancing the savory steak and cheese. Some people like their cheesesteaks with or without onions, showing how important they are.

Bell Peppers and Mushrooms

Sautéed bell peppers, green and red, are a favorite. They’re crisp and sweet, enhancing the sandwich. Mushrooms, especially baby bellas, add an earthy flavor. They should be tender but not too browned.

Other toppings like banana peppers, hot peppers, or dried oregano can also be used. They give the sandwich a unique flavor. Choosing toppings is up to you, making each Philly cheesesteak special.

Mastering the Right Cooking Technique

Cooking the perfect Philly cheesesteak is all about mastering the right technique. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, knowing the essential steps is key. Let’s explore the key aspects of cooking a delicious cheesesteak.

First, you need the right equipment. A large, deep sauté pan or a Dutch oven is best. This lets you sauté the veggies and cook the beef in batches. This ensures even browning and flavor.

Start by cooking the veggies, like sliced onions and bell peppers, over medium-low heat. Cook them until they’re tender and caramelized. This adds depth of flavor. Once the veggies are ready, it’s time to cook the beef.

Cook the beef in batches on medium-high heat, seasoning with salt and pepper. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming instead of browning.
Once the beef is cooked, combine it with the veggies in the pan.
Finally, add the cheese (provolone or Cheese Whiz) and let it melt. This creates that gooey, cheesy goodness.

This one-pan method makes cooking easy and cleanup simple. By following these steps, you can master the art of cooking a Philly cheesesteak at home.

Remember, the key to a true Philly cheesesteak is using the right ingredients and cooking everything in one pan. With practice, you’ll be making restaurant-quality cheesesteaks in no time.

Sauce Options and Condiments

No Philly cheesesteak is complete without the perfect sauce or condiment. The classic mayo-based sauce is a favorite, but there’s more to try. From tangy and creamy to spicy and savory, the right sauce can make this sandwich special.

Classic Mayo Base

A simple yet delicious mayonnaise-based sauce is a popular choice. Mixing in horseradish or Worcestershire sauce adds an extra kick. For sweetness, a drizzle of honey can balance the richness beautifully.

Special Sauce Variations

Want to try something new? Consider a tangy provolone cheese sauce or a creamy American cheese sauce. Spicy fans might enjoy hot sauce or Sriracha mayo. Mushroom gravy or peppercorn ranch can add a savory twist.

Specialty cheesesteak shops offer unique sauces like barbecue or buffalo. Trying different flavors can make your Philly cheesesteak stand out. The right sauce can transform the sandwich, so don’t be afraid to get creative!

Sauce Option	Flavor Profile	Recommended Use
Cheese Whiz	Creamy, Savory	Mixed into the sandwich
Provolone Cheese Sauce	Tangy, Creamy	Poured over the top
American Cheese Sauce	Smooth, Rich	Mixed into the sandwich
Garlic Aioli	Creamy, Garlicky	Used as a spread
Horseradish Sauce	Tangy, Spicy	Mixed into the mayonnaise

Whether you like a classic cheesesteak sauce or something unique, there’s a lot to try. Experiment and find your perfect flavor combination to elevate your homemade Philly cheesesteaks.

Time-Saving Tips and Meal Prep Suggestions

Making a Philly cheesesteak can seem hard, but smart strategies make it easy. Whether you’re busy or just want to cook faster, these tips will help. You’ll make delicious cheesesteaks quickly.

Prep Ahead for Convenience

Slice bell peppers and onions in advance and store them in the refrigerator for quick assembly later.
Use a mandolin slicer to achieve perfectly thin, uniform slices of beef, saving you valuable prep time.
For an even quicker version, opt for pre-sliced beef from your local grocery store.

Slow Cooker Cheesesteak

On busy days, the slow cooker is perfect. Just put beef, peppers, and onions in it. Let it cook while you do other things. Then, shred the beef and make your cheesesteaks with cheese and toppings.

Batch Cooking for Meal Prep

Make the cheesesteak filling in bulk and store it. This way, you can enjoy a Philly cheesesteak easily during the week. Just reheat and assemble.

Freezer-Friendly Cheesesteaks

Freeze the beef before slicing for easier thin slices. Freeze the sandwiches for quick meals later.

These tips save time and make meal prep easy. Enjoy a Philly cheesesteak without spending too much time cooking. These hacks are perfect for any meal.

Meal Prep Tips	Time Savings	Benefits
Slice vegetables in advance	5-10 minutes	Faster assembly, less cleanup
Use pre-sliced beef	10-15 minutes	Eliminates slicing step
Prepare filling in bulk	30-45 minutes	Quick assembly for multiple meals
Freeze partially for easier slicing	5-10 minutes	Achieves perfect thin slices
Slow cooker method	2-3 hours	Hands-off cooking, tender beef

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the perfect Philly cheesesteak is an art. Even a small mistake can mess up the flavors. As you try to make this famous sandwich, watch out for these common cheesesteak cooking errors. This way, your Philly-style sandwich will be amazing.

First, don’t overcook the beef. Use thin slices of ribeye steak and cook it over medium-high heat. This keeps it juicy. Thick slices can become tough and hard to chew.

Another key Philly cheesesteak tip is to control the heat when cooking veggies. Onions and mushrooms need to be caramelized, not burnt. High heat can make them taste bitter.

Don’t overlook the roll. Toasting it right is crucial to keep your sandwich from getting soggy. A soggy sandwich is a mess.

Lastly, pick the right cheese. The debate between provolone and Cheez Whiz is ongoing. Choose a cheese that melts well with the beef and veggies. Bad cheese can make your sandwich gloopy.

Remember these tips and avoid common cheesesteak cooking errors. You’ll make a Philly cheesesteak that will delight your taste buds.

Nutritional Information and Portion Sizes

Enjoying a Philly cheesesteak is great, but we should think about nutrition too. A 7-inch cheesesteak has 500 to 700 calories. This is a lot, so watching portion sizes is key for those counting calories. The beef is high in protein, which is good, but the dish can also have a lot of fat and sodium.

Caloric Content

A Philly cheesesteak is tasty, but we need to watch the calories. The original recipe used 8 ounces of meat per person. But, the author found 4 ounces is better for taste. By choosing a smaller portion, you can enjoy the taste without too many calories.

Dietary Considerations

For a healthier Philly cheesesteak, try some changes. Use leaner beef like top sirloin, flank, or tenderloin. These cuts have less fat and calories. Also, use less cheese or choose Swiss cheese for less fat.

Adding more veggies like caramelized onions and bell peppers is smart. They add fiber and nutrients. Plus, they make the dish taste even better.

FAQ

What is an authentic Philly cheesesteak sandwich made of?

An authentic Philly cheesesteak has thinly sliced ribeye beef, melted cheese, and a hoagie roll. You can add sautéed onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms too.

Who created the original Philly cheesesteak?

Pat Olivieri, a hot dog stand owner in Philadelphia, created the original Philly cheesesteak. He grilled beef and put it in a hot dog bun. A cab driver smelled it and asked for one, starting its popularity.

What is the best type of beef to use for a Philly cheesesteak?

Ribeye is the top choice for Philly cheesesteaks because of its tenderness and marbling. Sirloin and chuck roast are good alternatives for different tastes.

What is the best cheese for a Philly cheesesteak?

Provolone cheese is the best for Philly cheesesteaks because it melts well and tastes neutral. White American cheese and Cheez Whiz are also favorites in some places.

How do you make a Philly cheesesteak at home?

To make a Philly cheesesteak at home, start by slicing the ribeye beef thinly. Then, sauté the vegetables and cook the beef. Combine everything, melt the cheese, and put it on a toasted hoagie roll. It takes about 30-45 minutes.

What type of roll is traditionally used for a Philly cheesesteak?

Amoroso rolls are traditional, but any good hoagie roll works. The rolls should be lightly toasted to keep the sandwich from getting soggy.

What are some traditional toppings for a Philly cheesesteak?

Caramelized onions are a must for Philly cheesesteaks. Bell peppers and mushrooms are also favorites. Banana peppers, hot peppers, and dried oregano are other traditional toppings.

What is the best cooking method for a Philly cheesesteak?

Cook the vegetables first, then sauté the beef in batches. Finally, combine everything and melt the cheese in a large pan or Dutch oven.

What are some common sauces and condiments used for a Philly cheesesteak?

Mayo is a classic sauce for Philly cheesesteaks. You can add horseradish or Worcestershire sauce to it. Some like ketchup or hot sauce too.

How can I save time when making a Philly cheesesteak at home?

To save time, prep the vegetables ahead, use a mandolin for thin slices, or pre-sliced beef. A slow cooker method with chuck roast is quicker. You can also make the filling in bulk and store it for later.